Maclay Gardens State Park Wedding in Tallahassee, Florida
Michaela and John’s wedding took place at the absolutely GORGEOUS Maclay Gardens State Park! Maclay Gardens is a 1,176-acre Florida State Park, botanical garden and historic site, located in Tallahassee, in northeastern Florida. It also happens to be a beautiful place to get married! Between the perfect gardens, spanish moss, pink camelias, mature trees, and cute cottages on the property, the scenery is jaw-dropping.
To start the day off, I met the bride-to-be, Michaela, at one of the cottages. This where she slipped into her dress and did a few final makeup touches. Shortly after that, it was time for the first look! The weather was a bit gloomy at first, but thankfully the rain held off and the clouds added a nice balanced light for the photos! It was easy choosing a location for the first look- as soon as I laid eyes on the peaceful courtyard on the way to the ceremony site I knew that it was perfect. We positioned the groom, John, on the far side of the fountain so we could capture some wide shots of the garden, as well as some closeups as the two read their letters to each other. It was SO romantic! Next up, was their stunning wedding ceremony. The ceremony site was located in front of the reflection pool which made such a great backdrop. The two of them looked so perfect as they said their I Do's and exchanged wedding rings as the birds sung in the background. Maclay Gardens really felt like a tropical paradise! After the ceremony we snuck away with the newlyweds to take some romantic portraits and some fun bridal party photos around the park.
The reception at the DoubleTree near the Capitol building and Florida State University was equally as gorgeous. One of my favorite moments was when Michaela planned a surprise mother daughter dance to Rascal Flat's "My Wish". The sweet mother of the bride was not expecting it at all and actually unknowingly requested the song from the DJ multiple time through out the night prior to the dance because it was their song. Another moment that stands out was Michaela’s outfit change, she returned with a white mini dress with feather trim on top and a cute white cowboy hat to join in on the dance floor! So much fun!
From the decor to the music, the atmosphere was fun-loving and relaxed but with the perfect amount of elegance! The guests were definitely enjoying themselves and danced the night away! What a perfect wedding to conclude 2021!
